Carton having improved dispensing feature and blank therefor

ABSTRACT

A carton ( 90 ) for packaging a plurality of articles (C) includes a dispenser defined by a dispenser pattern ( 40 ) extending through the carton&#39;s first side panel ( 14 ), top panel ( 16 ), second side panel ( 18 ), and exiting end panel ( 12 ). The dispenser pattern defines a removable portion ( 92 ) that is separable along the dispenser pattern to form an opening into an interior of the carton. The dispenser pattern includes first ( 60 ) and second ( 62 ) end tear lines formed in respective first ( 32 ) and second ( 36 ) side exiting end flaps. Each of the first and second end tear lines includes a lower ( 56,57 ) end section. The two lower end sections of these end tear lines diverge away from each other toward a bottom panel of the carton and define therebetween a bottom end section of the removable portion.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a carton for containing articles, to a blank for forming the carton, and more particularly to a carton having an improved dispensing feature.

BACKGROUND

Enclosed cartons with dispensing features have been used in the past. Many of these cartons include article dispensers defined by lines of disruption such as tear lines, cuts, score lines, and fold lines. A dispenser may be removable from, or hingedly attached to, a carton to create an opening from which articles can be removed from the carton. One problem with many conventional carton dispensers is that they may be difficult for a user to remove. The present invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems of the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a blank for forming a carton for containing a plurality of articles. The blank includes a plurality of main panels hinged together in a linear series. The main panels are configured to form a tubular structure in a set-up carton. The main panels include a bottom panel, a first side panel, a top panel, and a second side panel. The blank further includes a plurality of exiting end flaps configured to form a front panel in the set-up carton. The front panel is configured to close a front end of the tubular structure. The exiting end flaps include a first side exiting end flap hingedly connected to the first side panel along a first marginal area of the blank and a second side exiting end flap hingedly connected to the second side panel along the first marginal area of the blank. The blank further includes a dispenser pattern extending through the top panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, and the front panel. The dispenser pattern defines, in the set-up carton, a removable section that is separable along the dispenser pattern to form an opening into an interior of the set-up carton. The dispenser pattern includes a first end tear line formed in the first side exiting end flap and a second end tear line formed in the second side exiting end flap. The first end tear line includes a first lower end section and the second end tear line includes a second lower end section. In the set-up carton, the first and second lower end sections diverge away from each other toward the bottom panel to define therebetween a bottom end section of the removable portion.

Optionally, the first lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and the second lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.

Optionally, the first lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and the second lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.

Optionally, the first end tear line includes a first generally transverse section and the second end tear line comprises a second generally transverse section. The first and second generally transverse sections extend toward one another from opposite sides of the front panel in the set-up carton.

Optionally, the first end tear line includes a first curved section and the second end tear line includes a second curved section. The first curved section is disposed between the first lower end section and the first generally transverse section and the second curved section is disposed between the second lower end section and the second generally transverse section.

Optionally, the first and second generally transverse sections and the first and second lower end sections each include a plurality of straight-line cuts.

Optionally, the first and second generally transverse sections and the first and second lower end sections each include a plurality of shallow V-shaped cuts.

Optionally, the dispenser pattern is configured so as to give a user of the set-up carton the option of either partially or completely removing the removable portion from a remaining portion of the set-up carton when the dispenser is fully opened.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton includes a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel coupled to both the top panel and the bottom panel, a second side panel disposed opposite the first side panel and coupled to both the top panel and the bottom panel, a back end panel disposed at a back end of the carton, and a front end panel disposed at a front end of the carton, the front end panel including a first side exiting end flap and a second side exiting end flap. The carton further includes a dispenser defined by a dispenser pattern. The dispenser pattern defines a removable portion that is separable along the dispenser pattern to form an opening into an interior of the carton. The dispenser pattern extends at least through the top panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, and the front end panel. The dispenser pattern includes a first end tear line formed in the first side exiting end flap and a second end tear line formed in the second side exiting end flap. The first end tear line includes a first lower end section and the second end tear line includes a second lower end section. The first and second lower end sections diverge away from each other toward the bottom panel to define therebetween a bottom end section of the removable portion.

Optionally, the first lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and the second lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.

Optionally, the first lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and the second lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.

Optionally, the first end tear line includes a first generally transverse section and the second end tear line includes a second generally transverse section. The first and second generally transverse sections extend toward one another from opposite sides of the front end panel.

Optionally, the first end tear line includes a first curved section and the second end tear line includes a second curved section. The first curved section is disposed between the first lower end section and the first generally transverse section and the second curved section is disposed between the second lower end section and the second generally transverse section.

Optionally, the first and second generally transverse sections and the first and second lower end sections each include a plurality of straight-line cuts.

Optionally, the first and second generally transverse sections and the first and second lower end sections each include a plurality of shallow V-shaped cuts.

Optionally, the dispenser pattern is configured so as to give a user of the carton the option of either partially or completely removing the removable portion from a remaining portion of the carton when the dispenser is fully opened.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the carton formed from the blank of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the carton of FIG. 2 in a first open or dispensing configuration in which the dispensing flap remains partially connected to the remainder of the carton;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the carton of FIG. 2 in a second open or dispensing configuration in which the dispensing flap is completely removed from the remainder of the carton;

FIG. 5 is a back end view of the carton of FIG. 2 during construction which illustrates how the back end flaps can be adhered to one another;

FIG. 6 is a front end view of the carton of FIG. 2 during construction which illustrates how the front end flaps can be adhered to one another while preventing the portion of the bottom exiting end flap underlying the removable portion from being adhered to the removable portion;

FIG. 7 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the carton formed from the blank of FIG. 7 in a closed configuration;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the carton of FIG. 8 in a first open or dispensing configuration in which the dispensing flap remains partially connected to the remainder of the carton;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the carton of FIG. 8 in a second open or dispensing configuration in which the dispensing flap is completely removed from the remainder of the carton.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and cartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the term “carton”, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, refers to a container for engaging, carrying, and/or dispensing articles, such as cans and bottles. However, it is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary articles include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like. In this specification, the relative terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper” and “top” may indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected cartons.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank 10 used to form a carton 90 (illustrated in FIGS. 2-4) according to a first embodiment of the invention. Blank 10 is generally rectangular in shape and includes a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and an adhesive flap 20 hinged together in a linear series. Back end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28 and front or exiting end flaps 30, 32, 34, 36 are hingedly connected at respective ends of a corresponding one of the main panels.

The blank 10 includes a bottom panel 12 hinged to a first side panel 14 by a fold line 11. The first side panel 14 is hinged to a top panel 16 by a fold line 13. The top panel 16 is hinged to a second side panel 18 by a fold line 15. The second side panel 18 is foldably connected to an adhesive flap 20 by a fold line 17.

The bottom panel 12 is foldably connected to a bottom back end flap 22 and a bottom exiting end flap 30. The first side panel 14 is foldably connected to a first side back end flap 24 and a first side exiting end flap 32. The top panel 16 is foldably connected to a top back end flap 26 and a top exiting end flap 34. The second side panel 18 is foldably connected to a second side back end flap 28 and a second side exiting end flap 36. The back end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28 may extend along a first marginal area of the blank 10 and may be foldably connected along a first longitudinally extending fold line 19. The exiting end flaps 30, 32, 34, 36 may extend along a second marginal area of the blank 10 disposed opposite the first marginal area, and may be foldably connected along a second longitudinally extending fold line 21. The longitudinal fold lines 19, 21 may be straight or substantially straight fold lines, or may be offset at one or more locations to account for, for example, blank thickness. When the carton 90 is erected, the end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28 close a back end of the carton 90, and the exiting end flaps 30, 32, 34, 36 close a front or exiting end of the carton 90.

Second side back end flap 28 has two generally squared-off outer corners as shown. In contrast, first side back end flap 24 has notched lower and upper outer corners 61, 63. Notched corners 61, 63 can be defined by generally square or rectangular-shaped cutouts. Second side exiting end flap 36 generally mirrors second side back end flap 28 and thus also includes two generally squared-off corners. First side exiting end flap 32 has an upper outer corner 64 that is notched and a lower outer corner 65 that is generally squared-off. Notched corner 64 may generally mirror notched corner 63.

The carton blank 10 includes a dispenser pattern 40 that defines a dispenser 80 in the erected carton 90. The dispenser pattern 40 includes a top tear line 70 disposed on top panel 16. Top tear line 70 includes a first top section 41 and a second top section 42. First top section 41 extends in a generally longitudinal direction from a point at or adjacent to fold line 13 to a point at or adjacent to an opening feature 66. Opening feature 66 may be disposed at or near a midpoint of top panel 16 between fold lines 13 and 15. First top section 41 may be angled slightly in the direction of the carton's front or exiting end. Second top section 42 may generally mirror first top section 41. Second top section 42 extends in a generally longitudinal direction from a point at or adjacent to fold line 15 to a point at or adjacent to opening feature 66. Second top section 42 may be angled slightly in the direction of the carton's front or exiting end. Opening feature 66 can be defined by a semi-circular cutout 55 and a fold line 58 that defines an elongated generally rectangular tab 59.

Dispenser pattern 40 also includes a first side tear line 44 disposed on first side panel 14. In the illustrated embodiment, first side tear line 44 is generally V-shaped and consists of a first side first section 47 and a first side second section 48 joined to one another via a rounded or curved section 43 which forms the vertex of the V-shape. First side first section 47 extends from a point at or adjacent to fold line 13 that is at or adjacent to first top section 41 to a point at or adjacent to curved section 43. First side tear first line 47 extends in a predominantly longitudinal direction (i.e., toward the bottom of the constructed carton 90), but is also angled toward the back end of the carton 90. First side second section 48 extends from a point at or adjacent to curved section 43 to a point at or adjacent to fold line 21. First side second section 48 extends in a predominantly transverse direction (i.e., toward the front end of the constructed carton 90) but is also angled toward the top of the carton 90.

Dispenser pattern 40 also includes a first end tear line 60 disposed on first side exiting end flap 32. First end tear line 60 includes a first end first section or first generally transverse section 51. First end first section 51 extends from a point at or adjacent to fold line 21 that is at or adjacent to first side second section 48, to a point at or adjacent to first end second section or first curved section 53. In the illustrated embodiment, first end first tear line 51 consists of a plurality of straight-line cuts disposed in a generally straight line. First end first section 51 extends in a generally transverse direction (i.e., toward the second side of the constructed carton 90). First end second section or first curved section 53 is preferably shorter in length than first end first tear line 51 and curves down toward the bottom of the erected carton 90. In the illustrated embodiment, first end second section 53 consists of a single arcuate cut. First end second section 53 extends to a point at or adjacent to first end third section or first lower end section 56. In the illustrated embodiment, first end third section 56 consists of a plurality of straight-line cuts disposed in generally straight line. First end third section 56 extends obliquely in a downward (i.e., toward the bottom of the constructed carton 90) and outward (i.e., toward the first side of the constructed carton 90) direction. First end third line 56 extends to a point at or adjacent to the lower edge of first side exiting end flap 32.

Dispenser pattern 40 also includes a second side section 46 disposed on second side panel 18. Second side section 46 may generally mirror first side section 44. In the illustrated embodiment, second side section 46 is generally V-shaped and consists of a second side first section 49 and a second side second section 50 joined to one another via a curved section 45 which forms the vertex of the V-shape. Second side first section 49 extends from a point at or adjacent to fold line 15 that is at or adjacent to second top section 42 to a point at or adjacent to curved section 45. Second side tear first line 49 extends in a predominantly longitudinal direction (i.e., toward the bottom of the constructed carton 90), but is also angled toward the back end of the carton 90. Second side second section 50 extends from a point at or adjacent to curved section 45 to a point at or adjacent to fold line 21. Second side second section 50 extends in a predominantly transverse direction (i.e., toward the front end of the constructed carton 90) but is also angled toward the top of the carton 90.

Dispenser pattern 40 also includes a second end tear line 62 disposed on second side exiting end flap 36. Second end tear line 62 may generally mirror first end tear line 60. Second end tear line 62 includes a second end first section or a second generally transverse section 52. Second end first section 52 extends from a point at or adjacent to fold line 21 that is at or adjacent to second side second section 50, to a point at or adjacent to second end second section or second curved section 54. In the illustrated embodiment, second end first section 52 consists of a plurality of straight-line cuts disposed in a generally straight line. Second end first section 52 extends in a generally transverse direction (i.e., toward the first side of the constructed carton 90). Second end second section 54 is preferably shorter in length than second end first section 52 and curves down toward the bottom of the erected carton 90. In the illustrated embodiment, second end second section 54 consists of a single arcuate cut. Second end second section 54 extends to a point at or adjacent to second end third section or second lower end section 57. In the illustrated embodiment, second end third section 57 consists of a plurality of straight-line cuts disposed in generally straight line. Second end third section 57 extends obliquely in a downward (i.e., toward the bottom of the constructed carton 90) and outward (i.e., toward the second side of the constructed carton 90) direction. Second end third line 57 extends to a point at or adjacent to the lower edge of second side exiting end flap 36.

The dimensions of the blank 10 may be selected to accommodate defining or characteristic dimensions of articles to be accommodated within the carton 90. For example, the top panel 16 and bottom panel 12 can have a width W1 that generally corresponds to or slightly exceeds a height of containers C or other articles to be accommodated within the carton 90. When cylindrical or substantially cylindrical containers C are used, the first and second side panels 14, 18 can have, for example, a height H1 that generally corresponds to or slightly exceeds an integral multiple of a largest or characteristic diameter of the containers C. For example, if the containers C are to be stacked in two rows in the carton 90, the height H1 of the carton 90 can be about equal to or slightly greater than twice the containers' C largest or characteristic diameter.

The carton 90 may be erected from the blank 10 by gluing or otherwise adhering the adhesive flap 20 to the inner side of the bottom panel 12 so that the bottom panel 12, first side panel 14, top panel 16, and second side panel 18 may be opened or set up to form a generally tubular sleeve. The ends of the generally tubular sleeve may be closed by folding and adhering the back end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28 and the exiting end flaps 30, 32, 34, 36. The exterior surfaces of the bottom and top back end flaps 22, 26 can be, for example, glued to interior surfaces of the first and second side back end flaps 24, 28. Containers C, or other articles, can be loaded into the sleeve in a conventional manner at any time before one or both ends of the carton are closed by the end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36.

The use of notched corners 61, 63 on first side back end flap 24 facilitates the secure attachment of back end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28. When the carton 90 is constructed, and the back end of the tubular sleeve is being closed, the two minor back end flaps (i.e., top back end flap 26 and bottom back end flap 22) are folded down first. First side back end flap 24 is then folded down so that it overlaps corresponding portions of top back end flap 26 and bottom back end flap 22. As shown in FIG. 5, glue strip G is placed along the outer edge of the exterior surface of second side back end flap 28. Glue strip G extends at its upper end onto a portion of the exterior surface of top back end flap 26 that is left exposed by notched corner 63. Glue strip G extends at its lower end onto a portion of the exterior surface of bottom back end flap 22 that is left exposed by notched corner 61. Second side back end flap 28 is folded down so that its outermost edge overlies the outermost edge of first side back end flap 24, including glue strip G, thereby securing second side back end flap 28 to the remaining back end flaps 22, 24, 26. Notched corners 61, 63 thus allow the use of a single glue strip G to secure the four back end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28 to one another.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the carton 90 erected from the blank 10. In the erected carton 90, the back end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28 form a back end panel 82 and the exiting end flaps 30, 32, 34, 36 form a front or exiting end panel 84. The dispenser pattern 40 forms a dispenser 80 having a removable portion 92 that may be partially or completely removed to place the carton 90 in an open or dispensing configuration.

Opening of the dispenser 80 may be initiated by inserting one or more fingers into the carton 90 through cutout 55 of opening feature 66. The dispenser 80 is fully opened by pulling the removable portion 92 outwardly and downwardly and tearing carton 90 along tear line sections 41, 42, 43, 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 57. The tearing of carton 90 along first and second end tear lines 60, 62 may be arrested prior to complete removal of removable portion 92 so as to leave the removable portion 92 partially connected to the remainder of the carton 90. Thus, for example, tearing along first and second end tear lines 60, 62 may be arrested at first and second end second sections 53, 54 after tearing along first and second end first sections 51, 52. The change in tearing direction provided by first and second end second sections 53, 54 may provide a natural stopping point and tactile feedback to a user when it is desired to leave removable portion 92 partially connected. FIG. 3 shows carton 90 in a first open or dispensing configuration following partial removal of removable portion 92. Opening of dispenser 80 may have a tendency to cause a front-most top article C to move into and be received within the interior of the now-inverted removable portion 92 as shown in FIG. 3, thereby facilitating the dispensing of the first article C. Particularly in the case where articles C are cans or otherwise generally cylindrical in shape, the remaining top row of articles C may have a tendency to roll forward such that each of the remaining top row articles C is received within a valley defined by the space between two adjacent lower-row articles C.

Alternatively, and at a user's option, the removable portion 92 may be fully removed by continuing to pull the removable portion 92 in a downward and/or outward direction, thereby tearing first and second end tear lines 60, 62 completely along first and second end third sections 56, 57 and separating the removable portion 92 completely from the remainder of the carton 90. FIG. 4 shows carton 90 in a second open or dispensing configuration following the complete separation of removable portion 92 from the remainder of carton 90.

The configuration of first and second end third lines 56, 57 which are angled so as to diverge away from one another toward the bottom of the carton 90 has been found to facilitate tearing along these lines as the removable portion 92 is rotated out and down in a natural movement by a user. The configuration of the first and second end tear lines 60, 62 also advantageously gives the user greater control over the partial or complete removal of removable portion 92.

It is optional to avoid adhering bottom exiting end flap 30 to first side exiting end flap 32 and second side exiting end flap 36, either altogether, or at least with respect to the portions of bottom exiting end flap 30 that underlie removable portion 92. These portions may include the portion of bottom exiting end flap 30 that underlies the region of exiting end panel 84 extending between first and second end third sections 56, 57. In certain embodiments, bottom exiting end flap 30 can be entirely free of adhesive. In other embodiments, one or more portions of bottom exiting end flap 30 that do not underlie removable portion 92 can be adhered to the first and/or second side exiting end flaps 32, 36.

The use of a first side exiting end flap 32 with a generally squared-off lower corner 65 can help prevent unwanted adhesion of bottom exiting end flap 30. When the carton 90 is constructed, and the exiting end of the tubular sleeve is being closed, the two minor exiting end flaps (i.e., top exiting end flap 34 and bottom exiting end flap 32) are folded down first. First side exiting end flap 32 is then folded down so that it overlaps corresponding portions of top exiting end flap 34 and bottom exiting end flap 30. As shown in FIG. 6, a glue strip G is placed along the outer edge of the exterior surface of first side exiting end flap 32. Glue strip G extends at its upper end onto a portion of the exterior surface of top exiting end flap 34 that is left exposed by notched corner 64. However, squared-off corner 65 prevents the lower end of glue strip G from contacting bottom exiting end flap 30. Second side exiting end flap 36 is folded down so that its outermost edge overlies the outermost edge of first side exiting end flap 32, including glue strip G, thereby securing second side exiting end flap 36 to first side exiting end flap 32 and top exiting end flap 34.

Avoiding the use of adhesive on at least the portions of bottom exiting end flap 30 that underlie removable portion 92 advantageously facilitates the partial and/or complete removal of removable portion 92 by avoiding the need to tear through bottom exiting end flap 30. Accordingly, removable portion 92 can be partially or fully removed while leaving bottom exiting end flap 30 intact.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of a blank 210 used to form a carton 290 (see FIGS. 8-10) according to a second embodiment of the invention. Blank 210 and the corresponding carton 290 can be generally similar to the blank 10 and carton 90 discussed above, and like or similar reference numbers in the figures indicate like or similar elements. The differences between the first and second embodiments relate primarily to first end tear line 260 disposed on first side exiting end flap 232 and second end tear line 262 disposed on second side exiting end flap 236.

First end tear line 260 includes a first end first section or first generally transverse section 283, a first end second section or first curved section 286, and a first end third section or first lower end section 288. First end first section 283 extends from a point at or adjacent to fold line 221 that is at or adjacent to first side second section 248, to a point at or adjacent to a first end second section 286. First end first section 283 preferably consists of a plurality of shallow V-shaped cuts disposed in a relatively straight line defining an axis. The first leg of the each of the V-shaped cuts is generally coincident with this axis, and the second leg is bent slightly out of axis toward the top of the constructed carton 90. In the illustrated embodiment, first end first section 283 extends in a predominantly transverse direction (i.e., toward the second side of the constructed carton 290) but is also angled down toward the carton's bottom. First end second section 286 is shorter in length than first end first section 283 and curves down toward the bottom of the erected carton 290. In the illustrated embodiment, first end second section 286 consists of a single arcuate cut. First end second section 286 extends to a point at or adjacent to first end third section 288. In the illustrated embodiment, first end third section 288 consists of two shallow V-shaped cuts disposed in a relatively straight line defining an axis. As illustrated, the spacing between the two shallow V-shaped cuts of first end third section 288 is greater than the spacing between the adjacent shallow V-shaped cuts of first end first section 283. First end third section 288 extends obliquely in a downward (i.e., toward the bottom of the constructed carton 290) and outward (i.e., toward the first side of the constructed carton 290) direction. First end third line 288 extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, the lower edge of first side exiting end flap 232. The terminal end of first end third section 288 is separated from the bottom edge of first side exiting end flap 232 by a region labeled 296 in FIG. 7, which is free of tear lines.

Second end tear line 262 may generally mirror first end tear line 260. Second end tear line 262 includes a second end first section or second generally transverse section 285, a second end second section or second curved section 287, and a second end third section or second lower end section 289. Second end first section 285 extends from a point at or adjacent to fold line 221 that is at or adjacent to second side second section 250, to a point at or adjacent to a second end second section 287. Second end first section 285 preferably consists of a plurality of shallow V-shaped cuts disposed in a relatively straight line defining an axis. The first leg of the each of the V-shaped cuts is generally coincident with this axis, and the second leg is bent slightly out of axis toward the top of the constructed carton 290. In the illustrated embodiment, second end first section 285 extends in a predominantly transverse direction (i.e., toward the first side of the constructed carton 290) but is also angled down toward the carton's bottom. Second end second section 287 is shorter in length than second end first section 285 and curves down toward the bottom of the erected carton 290. In the illustrated embodiment, second end second section 287 consists of a single arcuate cut. Second end second section 287 extends to a point at or adjacent to second end third section 289. In the illustrated embodiment, second end third section 289 consists of two shallow V-shaped cuts disposed in a relatively straight line defining an axis. As illustrated, the spacing between the two shallow V-shaped cuts of second end third section 289 is greater than the spacing between the adjacent shallow V-shaped cuts of second end first section 285. Second end third section 289 extends obliquely in a downward (i.e., toward the bottom of the constructed carton 290) and outward (i.e., toward the second side of the constructed carton 290) direction. Second end third line 289 extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, the lower edge of second side exiting end flap 236. The terminal end of first end third section 289 is separated from the bottom edge of second side exiting end flap 236 by a region labeled 297 in FIG. 7, which is free of tear lines.

As with the first embodiment, opening of the dispenser 280 may be initiated by inserting one or more fingers into the carton 290 through cutout 255 of opening feature 266. The dispenser 280 is opened by pulling the removable portion 292 outwardly and tearing carton 290 along tear line sections 241, 242, 243, 245, 247, 248, 249, 250, 283, 285, 286, 287, 288, 289. The tearing of carton 290 through first and second side exiting end flaps 232, 236 may be arrested prior to complete removal of removable portion 292 so as to leave the removable portion 292 partially connected to the remainder of the carton 290 (as shown in FIG. 9). Thus, for example, tearing along end tear lines 260, 262 may be arrested at first and second end second sections 286, 287 after tearing along first and second end first sections 283, 285. The change in tearing direction provided by first and second end second sections 286, 287 may provide a natural stopping point and tactile feedback to a user when it is desired to leave removable portion 292 partially connected. Alternatively, tearing through first and second side exiting end flaps 232, 236 may be arrested by tear line-free regions 296, 297 after tearing along first and second end third sections 288, 289.

Alternatively, and at a user's option, the removable portion 292 may be fully removed by continuing to pull the removable portion 292 in a downward and/or outward direction. The configuration of first and second end tear lines 260, 262 is such that, in the event of such continued application of force, first and second side exiting end flaps 232, 236 will tend to tear down from the terminal ends of first and second end third sections 288, 289 through the tear line-free regions 296, 297, thereby separating the removable portion 292 completely from the remainder of the carton 290. This tearing through the tear line-free regions 296, 297 is accomplished without the guide of any tear lines in these regions. FIG. 10 shows carton 290 in a second open or dispensing configuration following the complete separation of removable portion 292 from the remainder of carton 290.

As with the first embodiment, the configuration of first and second end third lines 287, 289 which are angled so as to diverge away from one another toward the bottom of the carton 290 facilitates tearing along these lines as the removable portion 292 is rotated out and down in a natural movement by a user. The configuration of the first and second end tear lines 260, 262 also advantageously gives the user greater control over the partial or complete removal of removable portion 292.

As with the first embodiment, at least the portion of bottom exiting end flap 230 that underlies removable portion 292 is not adhered to first side exiting end flap 232 or second side exiting end flap 236. This advantageously facilitates the partial and/or complete removal of removable portion 293. Thus, at least the portion of bottom exiting end flap 230 that underlies the region of exiting end panel 284 extending between first and second end third sections 288, 289 and between the tear line-free regions 296, 297 is free of adhesive.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape.

It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references such as “top”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not limit the respective panels to such orientation, but merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed it is envisaged that a hinged connection can be formed from one or more of the following: a short slit, a frangible line or a fold line, without departing from the scope of the invention. It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” each refers to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank or substrate of sheet material, facilitate folding portions of the blank or substrate of sheet material with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank or substrate of sheet material. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed a hinged connection can be formed from one or more fold lines.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut line, aligned slits, a line of short scores and any combination of the aforesaid options, without departing from the scope of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “tear line”, “weakened line of severance”, “severance line” and “frangible line” each may refer to all manner of lines formed in the blank or substrate of sheet material that facilitate separating portions of the blank or substrate of sheet material from one another, or otherwise that indicate optimal separation locations on the blank or substrate. As used herein, the terms “tear line”, “weakened line of severance”, “severance line” and “frangible line” each may refer to one of the following: a single cut line, a single partial-depth cut line (e.g., a single half-cut line), an interrupted cut line, a score line, an interrupted score line, a line of perforations, a line of short cuts, a line of short slits, a line of short partial-depth cuts (e.g., a line of short half cuts), and any combination of the aforementioned options.

It should be understood that hinged connections, fold lines, tear lines, weakened lines of severance, frangible lines and severance lines can each includes elements that are formed in the blank or substrate of sheet material, including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a frangible line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking to provide a fold line, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort to provide a frangible fold line, or to facilitate breaking with little effort to provide a frangible line. 

1. A blank for forming a carton for containing a plurality of articles, the blank comprising: a plurality of main panels hinged together in a linear series, the plurality of main panels configured to form a tubular structure in a set-up carton, the plurality of main panels comprising a bottom panel, a first side panel, a top panel, and a second side panel; a plurality of exiting end flaps configured to form a front panel in the set-up carton, the front panel being configured to close a front end of the tubular structure, the plurality of exiting end flaps comprising a first side exiting end flap hingedly connected to said first side panel along a first marginal area of the blank and a second side exiting end flap hingedly connected to said second side panel along said first marginal area of the blank; a dispenser pattern extending through the top panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, and the front panel, the dispenser pattern defining, in the set-up carton, a removable portion that is separable along said dispenser pattern to form an opening into an interior of the set-up carton, wherein the dispenser pattern comprises a first end tear line formed in the first side exiting end flap and a second end tear line formed in the second side exiting end flap, the first end tear line comprising a first lower end section and the second end tear line comprising a second lower end section, wherein, in the set-up carton, said first and second lower end sections diverge away from each other toward the bottom panel to define therebetween a bottom end section of the removable portion.
 2. The blank of claim 1, wherein said first lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and said second lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.
 3. The blank of claim 1, wherein said first lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and said second lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.
 4. The blank of claim 1, wherein said first end tear line comprises a first generally transverse section and said second end tear line comprises a second generally transverse section, said first and second generally transverse sections extending toward one another from opposite sides of the front panel in the set-up carton.
 5. The blank of claim 4, wherein said first end tear line comprises a first curved section and said second end tear line comprises a second curved section, wherein said first curved section is disposed between said first lower end section and said first generally transverse section and said second curved section is disposed between said second lower end section and said second generally transverse section.
 6. The blank of claim 4, wherein said first and second generally transverse sections and said first and second lower end sections each comprise a plurality of straight-line cuts.
 7. The blank of claim 4, wherein said first and second generally transverse sections and said first and second lower end sections each comprise a plurality of shallow V-shaped cuts.
 8. The blank of claim 1, wherein said dispenser pattern is configured so as to give a user of the set-up carton the option of either partially or completely removing the removable portion from a remaining portion of the set-up carton when said dispenser is fully opened.
 9. A carton for packaging a plurality of articles, the carton comprising: a top panel; a bottom panel; a first side panel coupled to both the top panel and the bottom panel; a second side panel disposed opposite the first side panel and coupled to both the top panel and the bottom panel; a back end panel disposed at a back end of the carton; a front end panel disposed at a front end of the carton, the front end panel comprising a first side exiting end flap and a second side exiting end flap; a dispenser defined by a dispenser pattern, the dispenser pattern defining a removable portion that is separable along said dispenser pattern to form an opening into an interior of said carton, said dispenser pattern extending at least through the top panel, the first side panel, the second side panel, and the front end panel, wherein the dispenser pattern comprises a first end tear line formed in the first side exiting end flap and a second end tear line formed in the second side exiting end flap, the first end tear line comprising a first lower end section and the second end tear line comprising a second lower end section, wherein said first and second lower end sections diverge away from each other toward said bottom panel to define therebetween a bottom end section of the removable portion.
 10. The carton of claim 9, wherein said first lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and said second lower end section extends to a point that is at or adjacent to a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.
 11. The carton of claim 9, wherein said first lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the first side exiting end flap and said second lower end section extends to a point in relative proximity to, but spaced apart a distance from, a bottom edge of the second side exiting end flap.
 12. The carton of claim 9, wherein said first end tear line comprises a first generally transverse section and said second end tear line comprises a second generally transverse section, said first and second generally transverse sections extending toward one another from opposite sides of the front end panel.
 13. The package of claim 12, wherein said first end tear line comprises a first curved section and said second end tear line comprises a second curved section, wherein said first curved section is disposed between said first lower end section and said first generally transverse section and said second curved section is disposed between said second lower end section and said second generally transverse section.
 14. The package of claim 12, wherein said first and second generally transverse sections and said first and second lower end sections each comprise a plurality of straight-line cuts.
 15. The package of claim 12, wherein said first and second generally transverse sections and said first and second lower end sections each comprise a plurality of shallow V-shaped cuts.
 16. The package of claim 9, wherein said dispenser pattern is configured so as to give a user of the carton the option of either partially or completely removing the removable portion from a remaining portion of the carton when said dispenser is fully opened. 